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Uglies is a sci-fi drama film directed by McG from a screenplay co-written by Jacob Forman, Vanessa Taylor, and Whit Anderson. Based on the 2005 dystopian novel of the same name by author Scott Westerfeld, the Netflix film is set in a world with enforced beauty standards and it follows the story of Tally Youngblood, who has been waiting for her beauty surgery but when one of her friend goes missing, she goes on an adventure which helps her learn about herself and the world she is living in. Uglies stars Joey King in the lead role with Chase Stokes, Keith Powers, Laverne Cox, Brianne Tju, Jan Luis Castellanos, and Kevin Miles starring in supporting roles. If you loved the rebellious nature, interesting dystopian world, and compelling characters in Uglies here are some similar movies you should check out next.
Uglies is a sci-fi drama film directed by McG from a screenplay co-written by Jacob Forman, Vanessa Taylor, and Whit Anderson. Based on the 2005 dystopian novel of the same name by author Scott Westerfeld, the Netflix film is set in a world with enforced beauty standards and it follows the story of Tally Youngblood, who has been waiting for her beauty surgery but when one of her friend goes missing, she goes on an adventure which helps her learn about herself and the world she is living in. Uglies stars Joey King in the lead role with Chase Stokes, Keith Powers, Laverne Cox, Brianne Tju, Jan Luis Castellanos, and Kevin Miles starring in supporting roles. If you loved the rebellious nature, interesting dystopian world, and compelling characters in Uglies here are some similar movies you should check out next.
- 9/14/2024
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
This post contains spoilers for "Barbie."
One of the many joys of watching "Barbie" is catching all the film's references to classic cinema. "The Wizard of Oz" was an obvious inspiration for co-writer and director Greta Gerwig's take on the iconic doll, from the yellow pink brick road that cuts through Barbieland to the ghost of Barbie creator and Mattel co-founder Ruth Handler (Rhea Perlman), who gradually emerges as a Wizard-like guide to Stereotypical Barbie (Margot Robbie) on her journey of spiritual discovery. Moreover, the film is a love letter to 20th-century movie musicals in general, as seen in the "I'm Just Ken" sequence -- a musical number that includes a Gene Kelly-styled dream ballet where the Kens adapt all-black attire recalling John Travolta's getup from "Grease" -- and the bold, vivid color palette of Barbieland, which brings to mind the production design for "The Umbrellas of Cherbourg.
One of the many joys of watching "Barbie" is catching all the film's references to classic cinema. "The Wizard of Oz" was an obvious inspiration for co-writer and director Greta Gerwig's take on the iconic doll, from the yellow pink brick road that cuts through Barbieland to the ghost of Barbie creator and Mattel co-founder Ruth Handler (Rhea Perlman), who gradually emerges as a Wizard-like guide to Stereotypical Barbie (Margot Robbie) on her journey of spiritual discovery. Moreover, the film is a love letter to 20th-century movie musicals in general, as seen in the "I'm Just Ken" sequence -- a musical number that includes a Gene Kelly-styled dream ballet where the Kens adapt all-black attire recalling John Travolta's getup from "Grease" -- and the bold, vivid color palette of Barbieland, which brings to mind the production design for "The Umbrellas of Cherbourg.
- 7/28/2023
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Lois Lowry's Newberry Medal-winning dystopian novel "The Giver" has been required reading in elementary school for many people since it was published in 1993 (myself included). Of course, Lowry's body of writing extends well beyond that, with books dating back to the late 1970s and works that include her other Newberry Medal-winner, the 1990 WWII Holocaust novel "Number the Stars." She's also written decidedly more light-hearted and quirky titles like the "Anastasia" and "Gooney Bird" books. Both of those center on young girls whose problems are, thankfully, neither matters of life or death nor concern them being denied the right to basic human autonomy.
Where the 2014 film version of...
The post Gossamer: Everything We Know So Far appeared first on /Film.
Where the 2014 film version of...
The post Gossamer: Everything We Know So Far appeared first on /Film.
- 6/14/2022
- by Sandy Schaefer
- Slash Film
Forest Whitaker, Thomasin McKenzie, Vera Farmiga and Richard E. Grant will lead the voice cast for “Gossamer,” an animated series adaptation of Lois Lowry’s novel.
The eight-part, half-hour animated series is produced by Bron Media’s virtual production and service company Bron Digital, which develops premium animation, interactive games and movies using Epic Games’ Unreal Engine.
Rounding out the cast for “Gossamer” is Wilmer Valderrama, Alanna Masterson and Courtney Rosemont, who makes her debut.
“Gossamer” is based on the young adult novel by Lowry, whose books include “The Giver” and “The Willoughbys” — the latter of which was previously adapted by Bron as an animated feature for Netflix.
Written by Crystal Meers, and directed by Azazel Jacobs and Heidi Bivens, “Gossamer” takes children and adults on a journey through the world of dreams and nightmares.
The show centers on Littlest One, who is an in-training Gossamer, a fairy who is a dream giver.
The eight-part, half-hour animated series is produced by Bron Media’s virtual production and service company Bron Digital, which develops premium animation, interactive games and movies using Epic Games’ Unreal Engine.
Rounding out the cast for “Gossamer” is Wilmer Valderrama, Alanna Masterson and Courtney Rosemont, who makes her debut.
“Gossamer” is based on the young adult novel by Lowry, whose books include “The Giver” and “The Willoughbys” — the latter of which was previously adapted by Bron as an animated feature for Netflix.
Written by Crystal Meers, and directed by Azazel Jacobs and Heidi Bivens, “Gossamer” takes children and adults on a journey through the world of dreams and nightmares.
The show centers on Littlest One, who is an in-training Gossamer, a fairy who is a dream giver.
- 6/14/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Rupert Muroch’s News Corp said Monday it will acquire the Books & Media segment of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for $349 million in cash and merge it with HarperCollins amid ongoing consolidation in the book publishing business.
Hmh Books & Media has an extensive backlist, “a sustainable and growing source of revenues, high margins and cash flow for publishers, particularly evergreen properties with broad, enduring and global appeal,” News Corp. said announcing the deal. In calendar year 2020, over 60% of Hmh Books & Media revenues were generated by its backlist, which includes The Lord of the Rings trilogy and other titles by J.R.R. Tolkien; 1984 and Animal Farm by George Orwell; and All the King’s Men by Robert Penn Warren. HarperCollins currently has rights to J.R.R. Tolkien’s works in the British Commonwealth.
Hmh Books & Media’s frontlist in the lifestyle and children’s segments includes Antoni in the Kitchen, Instant Pot Miracle, Wow...
Hmh Books & Media has an extensive backlist, “a sustainable and growing source of revenues, high margins and cash flow for publishers, particularly evergreen properties with broad, enduring and global appeal,” News Corp. said announcing the deal. In calendar year 2020, over 60% of Hmh Books & Media revenues were generated by its backlist, which includes The Lord of the Rings trilogy and other titles by J.R.R. Tolkien; 1984 and Animal Farm by George Orwell; and All the King’s Men by Robert Penn Warren. HarperCollins currently has rights to J.R.R. Tolkien’s works in the British Commonwealth.
Hmh Books & Media’s frontlist in the lifestyle and children’s segments includes Antoni in the Kitchen, Instant Pot Miracle, Wow...
- 3/29/2021
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
With The Willoughbys, writer/director Kris Pearn adapted a beloved children’s book of the same name by Lois Lowry, looking to be as faithful as possible to the “subversive” nature of her story, while bringing to it his own personal touch.
Pearn’s second feature, following 2013’s Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2, centers on the Willoughby children, who grew up with parents who could not be more disinterested in them. Exploring the sometimes-wide gap between the families we’re born into and those we choose, it watches as the kids send their selfish guardians off on vacation, setting off on a globetrotting adventure and forging new connections.
In conversation with Deadline, Pearn breaks down his narrative and visual approach to the feature—which debuted on Netflix last April—a clever, darkly comedic parable, through which he hoped to say “something real.”
Deadline: How did you come to direct The Willoughbys?...
Pearn’s second feature, following 2013’s Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2, centers on the Willoughby children, who grew up with parents who could not be more disinterested in them. Exploring the sometimes-wide gap between the families we’re born into and those we choose, it watches as the kids send their selfish guardians off on vacation, setting off on a globetrotting adventure and forging new connections.
In conversation with Deadline, Pearn breaks down his narrative and visual approach to the feature—which debuted on Netflix last April—a clever, darkly comedic parable, through which he hoped to say “something real.”
Deadline: How did you come to direct The Willoughbys?...
- 3/2/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Since the inception of the Oscars’ Best Animated Feature category in 2001, the race has been utterly dominated by powerhouse American studios—the most notable examples being Walt Disney Studios and its Emeryville subsidiary, Pixar. Having claimed eight Oscars over the last decade, and 13 overall, these studios have become almost insurmountable over time.
This year, they once again pose fierce competition with two titles, the clear frontrunner being Pete Docter and Kemp Powers’ Soul. Meditating on the origins of the human personality, Docter’s follow-up to Oscar winners Up and Inside Out centers on Joe (Jamie Foxx), a frustrated middle-school band teacher, who seeks to return to Earth, after a sudden accident separates him from his body. Striving to return to New York City to realize his dreams of performing as a jazz musician, the character finds that his only way back from the celestial realm known as The Great Before is to mentor a stubborn,...
This year, they once again pose fierce competition with two titles, the clear frontrunner being Pete Docter and Kemp Powers’ Soul. Meditating on the origins of the human personality, Docter’s follow-up to Oscar winners Up and Inside Out centers on Joe (Jamie Foxx), a frustrated middle-school band teacher, who seeks to return to Earth, after a sudden accident separates him from his body. Striving to return to New York City to realize his dreams of performing as a jazz musician, the character finds that his only way back from the celestial realm known as The Great Before is to mentor a stubborn,...
- 2/5/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
“The Willoughbys” has been a hit for Netflix ever since it started streaming last spring. This animated film won over both critics and audiences with its wry tale of four children who set out to be orphans because of their neglectful parents. Now we are predicting that “The Willoughbys” could contend for Best Animated Feature at the Oscars.
This screen version of the beloved children’s book by Lois Lowry merits a perfect score of 100% from the top critics polled at Rotten Tomatoes. Their consensus: “An appealing animated adventure whose silliness is anchored in genuine emotion offers fanciful fun the entire family can enjoy.”
Among those praising the picture was Natalia Winkelman of The New York Times who thought the film “thrives when it embraces its grim plot and lets mischief reign.” David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter observed, “it has an oddball charm that works surprisingly well.” And Peter Debruge...
This screen version of the beloved children’s book by Lois Lowry merits a perfect score of 100% from the top critics polled at Rotten Tomatoes. Their consensus: “An appealing animated adventure whose silliness is anchored in genuine emotion offers fanciful fun the entire family can enjoy.”
Among those praising the picture was Natalia Winkelman of The New York Times who thought the film “thrives when it embraces its grim plot and lets mischief reign.” David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter observed, “it has an oddball charm that works surprisingly well.” And Peter Debruge...
- 1/28/2021
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
“‘Grey Gardens’ meets ‘Arrested Development'” probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you’re conceiving an animated film for children, but that was exactly Kris Pearn‘s pitch for his adaptation of Lois Lowry‘s book “The Willoughbys.”
“It immediately struck me as that kind of ‘Arrested Development’ dysfunctional family story and yet there was an element of wildness of those kids that I could relate to in terms of being a father to my own children [in the entertainment industry],” Pearn tells Gold Derby at our Meet the Experts: Film Animation panel (watch above). “That idea of these odd children finding their way in our modern world — that was kind of what I pitched back. It’s kind of like a ‘Grey Gardens’ meets ‘Arrested Development’ for kids, and they latched onto that.”
Pearn, who’s helmed “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2” (2013), himself latched onto the “subversive,...
“It immediately struck me as that kind of ‘Arrested Development’ dysfunctional family story and yet there was an element of wildness of those kids that I could relate to in terms of being a father to my own children [in the entertainment industry],” Pearn tells Gold Derby at our Meet the Experts: Film Animation panel (watch above). “That idea of these odd children finding their way in our modern world — that was kind of what I pitched back. It’s kind of like a ‘Grey Gardens’ meets ‘Arrested Development’ for kids, and they latched onto that.”
Pearn, who’s helmed “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2” (2013), himself latched onto the “subversive,...
- 12/28/2020
- by Joyce Eng
- Gold Derby
In our Q&a series Last Call, we get down to the bottom of every last thing with some of our favorite celebs - from the last thing they texted to the last thing they binge-watched. This week, on-the-rise actress Ariana Greenblatt takes our call.
She's only been acting for five years, but Ariana Greenblatt has already starred in everything from fan-favorite Avengers: Infinity War to Disney Channel's Stuck in the Middle; however, she's only just getting started. Up next, she stars in The One and Only Ivan (based on the book of the same name), which was inspired by the true story of a gorilla that lived in a shopping mall for 27 years before finally being moved to a sanctuary. Ahead of the film's release on Disney+, we chatted with Ariana about everything from the last thing she took home from a set to the last piece of...
She's only been acting for five years, but Ariana Greenblatt has already starred in everything from fan-favorite Avengers: Infinity War to Disney Channel's Stuck in the Middle; however, she's only just getting started. Up next, she stars in The One and Only Ivan (based on the book of the same name), which was inspired by the true story of a gorilla that lived in a shopping mall for 27 years before finally being moved to a sanctuary. Ahead of the film's release on Disney+, we chatted with Ariana about everything from the last thing she took home from a set to the last piece of...
- 8/23/2020
- by Kristin Harris
- Popsugar.com
Netflix is claiming that 37.6 million households watched The Willoughbys animated film in its first month of release via the streamer.
The family feature, narrated and executive produced by Ricky Gervais, tells the story of a family of children convinced they’d be better off raising themselves. Thus, the Willoughby children hatch a sneaky plan to send their selfish parents on vacation. The siblings then embark on their own adventure to find the true meaning of family.
Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, Martin Short, Jane Krakowski, Terry Crews and Gervais are the voices of the feature, which is based on a story by Lois Lowry. Kim Pearn (Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2) and Cory Evans direct, with Pearn getting co-writing credit with Mark Stanleigh.
A short clip also circulated on social media along with the numbers tout.
37.6 million families met The Willoughbys over the last 4 weeks. Don’t miss out...
The family feature, narrated and executive produced by Ricky Gervais, tells the story of a family of children convinced they’d be better off raising themselves. Thus, the Willoughby children hatch a sneaky plan to send their selfish parents on vacation. The siblings then embark on their own adventure to find the true meaning of family.
Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, Martin Short, Jane Krakowski, Terry Crews and Gervais are the voices of the feature, which is based on a story by Lois Lowry. Kim Pearn (Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2) and Cory Evans direct, with Pearn getting co-writing credit with Mark Stanleigh.
A short clip also circulated on social media along with the numbers tout.
37.6 million families met The Willoughbys over the last 4 weeks. Don’t miss out...
- 5/23/2020
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
The Willoughbys, executive produced and narrated by Ricky Gervais, has been watched by 37.6 million households since bowing April 22 on Netflix.
Netflix on Friday also touted the sizeable first-month audience for the animated film version of Lois Lowry's story on its Twitter account.
In The Willoughbys, Will Forte and Alessia Cara voice siblings who devise a scheme to get rid of their parents, voiced by Martin Short and Jane Krakowski. Maya Rudolph, Terry Crews and Ricky Gervais also star in the voice cast of the film, which was directed by Kris Pearn (Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs ...
Netflix on Friday also touted the sizeable first-month audience for the animated film version of Lois Lowry's story on its Twitter account.
In The Willoughbys, Will Forte and Alessia Cara voice siblings who devise a scheme to get rid of their parents, voiced by Martin Short and Jane Krakowski. Maya Rudolph, Terry Crews and Ricky Gervais also star in the voice cast of the film, which was directed by Kris Pearn (Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs ...
- 5/22/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
The Willoughbys, executive produced and narrated by Ricky Gervais, has been watched by 37.6 million households since bowing April 22 on Netflix.
Netflix on Friday also touted the sizeable first-month audience for the animated film version of Lois Lowry's story on its Twitter account.
In The Willoughbys, Will Forte and Alessia Cara voice siblings who devise a scheme to get rid of their parents, voiced by Martin Short and Jane Krakowski. Maya Rudolph, Terry Crews and Ricky Gervais also star in the voice cast of the film, which was directed by Kris Pearn (Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs ...
Netflix on Friday also touted the sizeable first-month audience for the animated film version of Lois Lowry's story on its Twitter account.
In The Willoughbys, Will Forte and Alessia Cara voice siblings who devise a scheme to get rid of their parents, voiced by Martin Short and Jane Krakowski. Maya Rudolph, Terry Crews and Ricky Gervais also star in the voice cast of the film, which was directed by Kris Pearn (Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs ...
- 5/22/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Willoughbys, based on the book by Lois Lowry, is a truly wild adventure, and one that, like much of Lowry’s work, offers a special perspective on children’s stories. The Willoughbys are a family that are bizarre and unique, almost to an Addams Family degree, but they are also a kind of hyperbolic extension of […]
The post The Willoughbys Review And Activities appeared first on Are You Screening?.
The post The Willoughbys Review And Activities appeared first on Are You Screening?.
- 5/4/2020
- by Marc Eastman
- AreYouScreening.com
Netflix continues to be one of the few companies to perform well in spite of coronavirus, with the streaming giant recently overtaking Disney in terms of stock value. In recent weeks, we’ve seen some unusual and underrated titles dominate their rankings, whilst the service is announcing more and more additions to its original and licensed content. The latest success story for the streamer is animated film The Willoughbys, which has been getting a lot of love online since it was released on April 22nd.
The CGI picture focuses on an eccentric family and its four kids as they get up to adventures and mischief, with their parents too focused on each other to notice. The plot involves an abandoned baby, foster homes, and narration by a talking cat. Based on a book by Lois Lowry, the Netflix film boasts an impressive voice cast, including Will Forte, Martin Short and Ricky Gervais,...
The CGI picture focuses on an eccentric family and its four kids as they get up to adventures and mischief, with their parents too focused on each other to notice. The plot involves an abandoned baby, foster homes, and narration by a talking cat. Based on a book by Lois Lowry, the Netflix film boasts an impressive voice cast, including Will Forte, Martin Short and Ricky Gervais,...
- 4/23/2020
- by Jessica James
- We Got This Covered
2020 has proven to be an interesting time for animation. Ever since the Coronavirus pandemic closed down movie theaters, the entire film industry has had to recalibrate. Right now, animated fare is thriving, thanks to families being desperate for new things to watch at home. Trolls World Tour had a VOD debut, Onward has been a bigger hit on Digital and Disney+ than it was in theaters, and so on. This week, Netflix joins in with one of their big animated pushes for 2020 in The Willoughbys. A bright and manic flick, it has moments of lively fun and will enthrall younger audience members. As for adults? Well, it won’t be a chore to sit through, at least. The movie is an animated adventure, centering on the title family, and in particular, the children. Narrated by The Cat (voice of Ricky Gervais), we learn of the plight of the youngest Willoughbys.
- 4/23/2020
- by Joey Magidson
- Hollywoodnews.com
“The Willoughbys,” Netflix’s whimsical animated feature about four unloved siblings breaking free from their toxic home (based on the children’s book by Lois Lowry), couldn’t arrive at a more opportune time during the global pandemic. And the irony isn’t lost on director Kris Pearn (“Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2”), who infused his aesthetic with a hand-made, retro quality filled with tactile textures and bright colors.
“The world we’re living in is really hard to imagine,” said Pearn, who made his movie at Vancouver-based Bron Animation while partnering with Netflix, which provided crucial financing and creative support as part of its new auteur-based culture for indie animation. “But the theme of Lois’ book — you can’t build a wall to keep ideas out — is timely for wanting to bust out right now.”
More from IndieWire'The Willoughbys' Review: Netflix's Animated Charmer Spoofs Kids-in-Peril Stories with...
“The world we’re living in is really hard to imagine,” said Pearn, who made his movie at Vancouver-based Bron Animation while partnering with Netflix, which provided crucial financing and creative support as part of its new auteur-based culture for indie animation. “But the theme of Lois’ book — you can’t build a wall to keep ideas out — is timely for wanting to bust out right now.”
More from IndieWire'The Willoughbys' Review: Netflix's Animated Charmer Spoofs Kids-in-Peril Stories with...
- 4/23/2020
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
There’s something about The Willoughbys, Netflix’s new CG-animated family film based on the Lois Lowry children’s book, that looks a little old-fashioned. But director Kris Pearn doesn’t mind. In fact, that was his intention. Down to the yarn-like bright red hair that covers the heads of the Willoughby children, the intrepid protagonists of the family adventure, to […]
The post ‘The Willoughbys’ Director Kris Pearn is Blending 2D and Stop-Motion Animation Styles for a New Take on an Old Story [Interview] appeared first on /Film.
The post ‘The Willoughbys’ Director Kris Pearn is Blending 2D and Stop-Motion Animation Styles for a New Take on an Old Story [Interview] appeared first on /Film.
- 4/22/2020
- by Hoai-Tran Bui
- Slash Film
From the outset, Kris Pearn’s charming and off-kilter “The Willoughbys” makes its wacky worldview clear: The is not your average fluffy and fuzzy kids’ story, and don’t let any of the genre’s usual trappings make you think otherwise. Sure, there’s a sarcastic cat narrator (amusingly voiced by Ricky Gervais), a pack of cute kids, a rickety old house, a whimsical nanny, and an adorable baby orphan. There’s even Terry Crews voicing a bizarre candy magnate. But “The Willoughbys” is different — or, perhaps, just different enough to stand out,
The movie is based on Lois Lowry’s novel of the same name, which also set out to upend tired expectations about kid-centric entertainment and the iffy parental figures that often populate them. Pearn’s animated Netflix version can’t help but embrace the kind of lessons endemic to entertainment aimed at little ones. The trick, however,...
The movie is based on Lois Lowry’s novel of the same name, which also set out to upend tired expectations about kid-centric entertainment and the iffy parental figures that often populate them. Pearn’s animated Netflix version can’t help but embrace the kind of lessons endemic to entertainment aimed at little ones. The trick, however,...
- 4/21/2020
- by Kate Erbland
- Indiewire
“The Willoughbys” hits Netflix this Wednesday, the latest in the streaming platform’s slate of animated, family-friendly features.
Based on the Lois Lowry books, the film follows the four Willoughby children, who live in a house where their self-centered parents neglect them, depriving them of love. The children devise a plan to send their parents on a long vacation and, in the process, end up finding out the true meaning of family when they meet Nanny, voiced by Maya Rudolph.
“Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs” director Kris Pearn had read the books and responded to the “idea of subverting children’s literature on its head,” he says. “It was obvious [Lowry] was making fun of Roald Dahl.”
Pearn’s idea in adapting the books was to play with the tropes of animated family films.
“What if we did ‘Grey Gardens’ meets ‘Arrested Development’ for kids?” he says.
He knew he...
Based on the Lois Lowry books, the film follows the four Willoughby children, who live in a house where their self-centered parents neglect them, depriving them of love. The children devise a plan to send their parents on a long vacation and, in the process, end up finding out the true meaning of family when they meet Nanny, voiced by Maya Rudolph.
“Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs” director Kris Pearn had read the books and responded to the “idea of subverting children’s literature on its head,” he says. “It was obvious [Lowry] was making fun of Roald Dahl.”
Pearn’s idea in adapting the books was to play with the tropes of animated family films.
“What if we did ‘Grey Gardens’ meets ‘Arrested Development’ for kids?” he says.
He knew he...
- 4/21/2020
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
“If you’re interested in stories with happy endings, you would be better off reading some other book. In this book, not only is there no happy ending, there is no happy beginning and very few happy things happen in the middle.”
So opens the first volume of Lemony Snicket’s “A Series of Unfortunate Events.” As practically any young reader will attest, such an admonition is no deterrent at all, but more of an enticement to forge on in a book that amplifies for comic effect the tropes of “old-fashioned” children’s stories — of the sort that Charles Dickens once wrote, about orphans and adversity, poverty and porridge.
Lois Lowry’s “The Willoughbys” was hatched in this same ruthful tradition. The children are neglected, the circumstances are miserable and there is much eating of oatmeal, which, as far as the four Willoughby children are concerned, is only a slight...
So opens the first volume of Lemony Snicket’s “A Series of Unfortunate Events.” As practically any young reader will attest, such an admonition is no deterrent at all, but more of an enticement to forge on in a book that amplifies for comic effect the tropes of “old-fashioned” children’s stories — of the sort that Charles Dickens once wrote, about orphans and adversity, poverty and porridge.
Lois Lowry’s “The Willoughbys” was hatched in this same ruthful tradition. The children are neglected, the circumstances are miserable and there is much eating of oatmeal, which, as far as the four Willoughby children are concerned, is only a slight...
- 4/20/2020
- by Peter Debruge
- Variety Film + TV
Last year, Netflix delivered quite the charming and touching animated Christmas movie with Klaus. This year, they’re digging into animation again, this time with the promising quirky comedy The Willoughbys, based on the children’s book of the same name by Newberry Award-winning author Lois Lowry. If this is your first time hearing about The Willoughbys, […]
The post ‘The Willoughbys’ Clip: Ricky Gervais Voices a Cat Who Introduces Netflix’s Animated Family appeared first on /Film.
The post ‘The Willoughbys’ Clip: Ricky Gervais Voices a Cat Who Introduces Netflix’s Animated Family appeared first on /Film.
- 4/11/2020
- by Ethan Anderton
- Slash Film
The official trailer for the upcoming Netflix animated film, The Willoughbys, starring Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, Alessia Cara, Terry Crews, Martin Short, Jane Krakowski, Sean Cullen, and Ricky Gervais has finally been released and you can see it right here on CinemaNerdz!
Convinced they’d be better off raising themselves, the Willoughby children hatch a sneaky plan to send their selfish parents on vacation. The siblings then embark on their own high-flying adventure to find the true meaning of family.
About The Film
Director/Writer: Kris Pearn Writers: Kris Pearn & Mark Stanleigh Based On: “The Willoughbys” by Lois Lowry Cast: Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, Alessia Cara, Terry Crews, Martin Short, Jane Krakowski, Séan Cullen, Ricky Gervais
The Willoughbys
will be released by Netflix on April 22, 2020!
For More Information, visit the film on:
Official Site
#TheWilloughbys / @NetflixFilm...
Convinced they’d be better off raising themselves, the Willoughby children hatch a sneaky plan to send their selfish parents on vacation. The siblings then embark on their own high-flying adventure to find the true meaning of family.
About The Film
Director/Writer: Kris Pearn Writers: Kris Pearn & Mark Stanleigh Based On: “The Willoughbys” by Lois Lowry Cast: Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, Alessia Cara, Terry Crews, Martin Short, Jane Krakowski, Séan Cullen, Ricky Gervais
The Willoughbys
will be released by Netflix on April 22, 2020!
For More Information, visit the film on:
Official Site
#TheWilloughbys / @NetflixFilm...
- 3/23/2020
- by Mike Tyrkus
- CinemaNerdz
If your kids are stuck inside and wishing their parents would just go away, the first trailer for the Netflix animated family film “The Willoughbys” might give them a few ideas.
“The Willoughbys” is about a family of four mop-top, redhead kids stuck with parents who don’t love them anymore. They devise a plan to send their parents on a dangerous vacation from which they’ll never return. It’s an adaptation of Newbery Award-winning author Lois Lowry’s 2008 book from the director of “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2,” Kris Pearn.
Ricky Gervais plays a talking cat who narrates the film, and he lends a fiendish tone to this colorful adventure and caper.
Also Read: Netflix in April: Here's Everything Coming and Going
“All the Willoughby children ever wanted was to have a normal family. But their loving parents had no love left over for them,” he says in the trailer.
“The Willoughbys” is about a family of four mop-top, redhead kids stuck with parents who don’t love them anymore. They devise a plan to send their parents on a dangerous vacation from which they’ll never return. It’s an adaptation of Newbery Award-winning author Lois Lowry’s 2008 book from the director of “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2,” Kris Pearn.
Ricky Gervais plays a talking cat who narrates the film, and he lends a fiendish tone to this colorful adventure and caper.
Also Read: Netflix in April: Here's Everything Coming and Going
“All the Willoughby children ever wanted was to have a normal family. But their loving parents had no love left over for them,” he says in the trailer.
- 3/23/2020
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
"We're going to find a new family!" Netflix has unveiled the first trailer for The Willoughbys, their next home-made animated movie following Klaus last year. This is actually made by Bron, an animation studio based in Vancouver. It's adapted from Lois Lowry's novel of the same name about a group of kids who get into all kinds of trouble. Convinced they'd be better off raising themselves, the Willoughby children hatch a sneaky plan to send their selfish parents on vacation. The siblings end up embarking upon their own high-flying adventure to find the true meaning of family. "It's a love letter to kid logic, unconventional families and awkward childhoods. It's a story for anybody who struggles to fit in," the filmmakers explain. Yeah that sounds about right. Featuring the voices of Will Forte, Maya Rudolph, Alessia Cara, Terry Crews, Martin Short, Jane Krakowski, Séan Cullen, and Ricky Gervais. Get...
- 3/23/2020
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
The animation studios in California are rapidly adjusting to the outbreak of Coronavirus, which has had an immediate impact on their workflows. Employees are being encouraged or required to work from home, some productions have been temporarily halted, and the announcement from Universal that DreamWorks Animations’ “Trolls World Tour” will break the theatrical window with same-day VOD on April 10 offers an alternative revenue stream to combat theater closures.
Here’s a rundown of the studios’ official policies during these uncertain times:
More from IndieWireMovie Theaters Endured Every Threat for Over a Century, Until Coronavirus Shut Them Down: A TimelineEvery Animated Feature Coming Out in 2020
Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios
Status: Per the Walt Disney Company, “employees who are able to work from home are being asked to do so, including those at The Walt Disney Studios, Walt Disney Television, ESPN, Direct-to-Consumer, and Parks, Experiences and Products.” Meanwhile,...
Here’s a rundown of the studios’ official policies during these uncertain times:
More from IndieWireMovie Theaters Endured Every Threat for Over a Century, Until Coronavirus Shut Them Down: A TimelineEvery Animated Feature Coming Out in 2020
Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios
Status: Per the Walt Disney Company, “employees who are able to work from home are being asked to do so, including those at The Walt Disney Studios, Walt Disney Television, ESPN, Direct-to-Consumer, and Parks, Experiences and Products.” Meanwhile,...
- 3/18/2020
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
This year, Pixar and Disney get back to originals with greater inclusion and diversity, Sony returns with another stylistic experiment from Oscar-winning producers Phil Lord and Chris Miller (“Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse”), and two-time Oscar nominee Tomm Moore of Cartoon Saloon tackles an Irish adventure about the secret of wolves.
In addition, Netflix has three new releases, Warner Bros. launches a Hanna-Barbera Cinematic Universe, SpongeBob, The Trolls, and Gru and the Minions are all back, and “Bob’s Burgers” makes its big-screen debut.
More from IndieWireThe Most Shocking Discoveries About 'Slumlord' Jared Kushner in Netflix's 'Dirty Money''Soul' Trailer: Jamie Foxx Jazzes Up Pixar's Feel-Good Summer Comedy
Note: All release dates were accurate at this writing, but could change in response to the coronavirus.
Pixar and Disney started the year with “Onward” (March 6) the studio’s first magical fantasy. Director Dan Scanlon got semi-autobiographical about losing his father when he...
In addition, Netflix has three new releases, Warner Bros. launches a Hanna-Barbera Cinematic Universe, SpongeBob, The Trolls, and Gru and the Minions are all back, and “Bob’s Burgers” makes its big-screen debut.
More from IndieWireThe Most Shocking Discoveries About 'Slumlord' Jared Kushner in Netflix's 'Dirty Money''Soul' Trailer: Jamie Foxx Jazzes Up Pixar's Feel-Good Summer Comedy
Note: All release dates were accurate at this writing, but could change in response to the coronavirus.
Pixar and Disney started the year with “Onward” (March 6) the studio’s first magical fantasy. Director Dan Scanlon got semi-autobiographical about losing his father when he...
- 3/12/2020
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
Netflix on Wednesday unveiled the first look at The Willoughbys, executive produced and narrated by Ricky Gervais, at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival in Annecy, France. The family comedy, the streamer's second animated feature, is set to debut next spring.
Director Kris Pearn (Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2) was on hand to debut the never-before-seen footage from the film, which is adapted from Lois Lowry's 2010 book of the same name.
The scenes showed the Willoughby children visiting a candy factory and its elderly owner. “It's Willy Wonka meets Citizen Kane meets Ronald McDonald,”...
Director Kris Pearn (Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2) was on hand to debut the never-before-seen footage from the film, which is adapted from Lois Lowry's 2010 book of the same name.
The scenes showed the Willoughby children visiting a candy factory and its elderly owner. “It's Willy Wonka meets Citizen Kane meets Ronald McDonald,”...
- 6/12/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Netflix on Wednesday unveiled the first look at The Willoughbys, executive produced and narrated by Ricky Gervais, at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival in Annecy, France. The family comedy, the streamer's second animated feature, is set to debut next spring.
Director Kris Pearn (Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2) was on hand to debut the never-before-seen footage from the film, which is adapted from Lois Lowry's 2010 book of the same name.
The scenes showed the Willoughby children visiting a candy factory and its elderly owner. “It's Willy Wonka meets Citizen Kane meets Ronald McDonald,”...
Director Kris Pearn (Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2) was on hand to debut the never-before-seen footage from the film, which is adapted from Lois Lowry's 2010 book of the same name.
The scenes showed the Willoughby children visiting a candy factory and its elderly owner. “It's Willy Wonka meets Citizen Kane meets Ronald McDonald,”...
- 6/12/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Annecy, France — A significant part of the future of the world new global streaming platforms will depend on their appeal to family audiences. So it’s no small matter that, in the space of eight hours at France’s Annecy Festival, Netflix will unveil for the first time ever to a discerning industry audience a string of clips from its first two original animated movie films: Sergio Pablos’ “Klaus,” out this Christmas, and Chris Pearn’s “The Willoughbys,” scheduled for a Spring 2020 bow.
Both are major steps for Netflix. A few days out from Annecy, history looked to rest lightly on the shoulders of Pearn as with a massive enthusiasm – he’s a self declared optimist, he says – and at an antic pace he fielded questions from Variety on his much anticipated title, which will help shape a public perception of Netflix’s animated movie ambitions.
Currently in production at Bron Animation in Vancouver,...
Both are major steps for Netflix. A few days out from Annecy, history looked to rest lightly on the shoulders of Pearn as with a massive enthusiasm – he’s a self declared optimist, he says – and at an antic pace he fielded questions from Variety on his much anticipated title, which will help shape a public perception of Netflix’s animated movie ambitions.
Currently in production at Bron Animation in Vancouver,...
- 6/12/2019
- by John Hopewell
- Variety Film + TV
Martin Short has signed on to the cast of Good People, Amazon’s half-hour comedy pilot from Empire co-creator Lee Daniels and 2 Broke Girls co-creator Whitney Cummings — who also stars — Amazon Studios and Fox 21 Television Studios. In addition to Cummings, he joins previously announced Lisa Kudrow and Greg Kinnear.
Written by Daniels and Cummings, Good People revolves around three generations of women working in the ombudsman’s office of a college that navigates the current cultural climate, the concept of feminism across different generations and the struggle to reconcile socially constructed ideas with current ethical views regarding complex issues such as sex, race, class and gender.
Short will play Dean Ed Brown, the self-satisfied dean of Sacramento University who has no concept of what’s appropriate. He is of the “old guard” in terms of how he sees the world, and his casual sexism causes constant problems for the ombudsman’s office.
Written by Daniels and Cummings, Good People revolves around three generations of women working in the ombudsman’s office of a college that navigates the current cultural climate, the concept of feminism across different generations and the struggle to reconcile socially constructed ideas with current ethical views regarding complex issues such as sex, race, class and gender.
Short will play Dean Ed Brown, the self-satisfied dean of Sacramento University who has no concept of what’s appropriate. He is of the “old guard” in terms of how he sees the world, and his casual sexism causes constant problems for the ombudsman’s office.
- 5/22/2019
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
The Giver may have come out over 25 years ago, but the story holds just as much weight now as it did back then. That could be why it’s finally been turned into a graphic novel. We chatted with author Lois Lowry about what works in P. Craig Russell’s adaptation—along with her thoughts on the 2014 movie, and what wisdom…...
- 2/5/2019
- by Beth Elderkin on io9, shared by Laura M. Browning to The A.V. Club
- avclub.com
The world of Roald Dahl is coming to Netflix. In a deal with The Roald Dahl Story Company, the internet TV network has set a new slate of original animated event series based on the books from the Roald Dahl library, including Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Matilda, The Bfg, The Twits, and other beloved titles.
In the release announcing the pact, Netflix said it “intends to remain faithful to the quintessential spirit and tone of Dahl,”, but notes it plans to build out an imaginative story universe that expands beyond the books.
“Our mission, which is purposefully lofty, is for as many children as possible around the world to experience the unique magic and positive message of Roald Dahl’s stories,” said Roald Dahl’s widow, Felicity Dahl, “This partnership with Netflix marks a significant move toward making that possible and is an incredibly exciting new chapter for the Roald Dahl Story Company.
In the release announcing the pact, Netflix said it “intends to remain faithful to the quintessential spirit and tone of Dahl,”, but notes it plans to build out an imaginative story universe that expands beyond the books.
“Our mission, which is purposefully lofty, is for as many children as possible around the world to experience the unique magic and positive message of Roald Dahl’s stories,” said Roald Dahl’s widow, Felicity Dahl, “This partnership with Netflix marks a significant move toward making that possible and is an incredibly exciting new chapter for the Roald Dahl Story Company.
- 11/27/2018
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix will create an animated event series based on the books of Roald Dahl. The English author is a favorite of young readers, having created iconic characters such as Willy Wonka, the Bfg, and the Twits.
The shows come with the blessing of the author’s family and will be produced in conjunction with the Roald Dahl Story Company. In a press release announcing the partnership, Netflix said it intends to remain faithful to the quintessential spirit and tone of Dahl.” However, the company isn’t just interested in a straight adaptation of his books. It wants to create a “story universe” that will extend beyond the yarns about magical chocolate factories and friendly giants that have already been told.
In an interview with Variety last month, Melissa Cobb, VP of kids & family content at Netflix, said some of the Dahl stories will “potentially overlap.”
“There will be threads that connect all of them,...
The shows come with the blessing of the author’s family and will be produced in conjunction with the Roald Dahl Story Company. In a press release announcing the partnership, Netflix said it intends to remain faithful to the quintessential spirit and tone of Dahl.” However, the company isn’t just interested in a straight adaptation of his books. It wants to create a “story universe” that will extend beyond the yarns about magical chocolate factories and friendly giants that have already been told.
In an interview with Variety last month, Melissa Cobb, VP of kids & family content at Netflix, said some of the Dahl stories will “potentially overlap.”
“There will be threads that connect all of them,...
- 11/27/2018
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
John and Matthew are watching every single live-action film starring Meryl Streep.
#47 —The Chief Elder, leader of a dystopian society.
Matthew: In Lois Lowry’s 1993 young adult novel The Giver, a society recovering from near-ruination divides its people into communities and, in the process, mistakes sameness for equality. In the 2014 film adaptation of Lowry’s Newbery Medal-winning classic, a production team looking to make a quick buck on the under-18 set mistakes glossy superficiality for storytelling simplicity and basic filmmaking competency. Despite its undeniable following and long-held status as a formative literary staple for American adolescents, The Giver was somehow omitted from my middle school reading list. I’m positive Lowry’s tale has its merits, but whatever those may be, they are almost entirely undetectable in this version from journeyman director Phillip Noyce.
Noyce’s iteration centers around Jonas (Australian twink Brenton Thwaites), a 16-year-old who we are told...
#47 —The Chief Elder, leader of a dystopian society.
Matthew: In Lois Lowry’s 1993 young adult novel The Giver, a society recovering from near-ruination divides its people into communities and, in the process, mistakes sameness for equality. In the 2014 film adaptation of Lowry’s Newbery Medal-winning classic, a production team looking to make a quick buck on the under-18 set mistakes glossy superficiality for storytelling simplicity and basic filmmaking competency. Despite its undeniable following and long-held status as a formative literary staple for American adolescents, The Giver was somehow omitted from my middle school reading list. I’m positive Lowry’s tale has its merits, but whatever those may be, they are almost entirely undetectable in this version from journeyman director Phillip Noyce.
Noyce’s iteration centers around Jonas (Australian twink Brenton Thwaites), a 16-year-old who we are told...
- 11/22/2018
- by Matthew Eng
- FilmExperience
The director of the wonderful animated film Book of Life, Jorge Gutierrez, is now developing a limited animated series for Netflix called Maya and the Three.
The series will consist of nine episode and when talking about it, the director says that it’s basically a Mexican version of The Lord of the Rings, “but hilarious.”
The story is set in a “mythical Mesoamerican inspired world, a warrior princess embarks on a quest to recruit three legendary fighters to help save the world of men and gods.”
The series was also co-written by Silvia Olivas (Elena of Avalor) and Jeff Ranjo (Moana) is head of story on the project. It should be released on 2021.
Netflix is making a big animation push and there are five other projects that they’ve announced on top of this one. Those other projects include:
My Father’S Dragon (2021)
A 2D animated family feature film...
The series will consist of nine episode and when talking about it, the director says that it’s basically a Mexican version of The Lord of the Rings, “but hilarious.”
The story is set in a “mythical Mesoamerican inspired world, a warrior princess embarks on a quest to recruit three legendary fighters to help save the world of men and gods.”
The series was also co-written by Silvia Olivas (Elena of Avalor) and Jeff Ranjo (Moana) is head of story on the project. It should be released on 2021.
Netflix is making a big animation push and there are five other projects that they’ve announced on top of this one. Those other projects include:
My Father’S Dragon (2021)
A 2D animated family feature film...
- 11/6/2018
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
Netflix is upping the ante on its family-friendly fare with a just-announced slate of six animated TV series and films. The forthcoming programming will feature the voices of Ricky Gervais, Maya Rudolph, and pop chanteuse Alessia Cara, as well as a new series from Craig McCracken -- the creator of cult-favorite cartoon The Powerpuff Girls.
Netflix has two animated movies in the works, reports Variety, including My Father’s Dragon (directed by Oscar nominee Nora Twomey), and The Willoughbys -- an adaptation of Lois Lowry’s 2008 novel featuring the voices of Gervais, Rudolph, and Cara. My Father’s Dragon (premiering in 2021) tells the story of a young runaway searching for a captive dragon on a magical island, while The Willoughbys (2020) follows four children who must fend for themselves after being abandoned by their selfish parents.
On TV, Netflix is readying three shows: McCracken’s Kid Cosmic (2020), about a young boy...
Netflix has two animated movies in the works, reports Variety, including My Father’s Dragon (directed by Oscar nominee Nora Twomey), and The Willoughbys -- an adaptation of Lois Lowry’s 2008 novel featuring the voices of Gervais, Rudolph, and Cara. My Father’s Dragon (premiering in 2021) tells the story of a young runaway searching for a captive dragon on a magical island, while The Willoughbys (2020) follows four children who must fend for themselves after being abandoned by their selfish parents.
On TV, Netflix is readying three shows: McCracken’s Kid Cosmic (2020), about a young boy...
- 11/6/2018
- by Geoff Weiss
- Tubefilter.com
Continuing their endless growth of original content, Netflix has ordered up six new animated movies and TV shows for their streaming library, spanning a variety of demographics and genres. They include a new 2D animated film from The Secret of Kells director Nora Twomey, an adaptation of Lois Lowry’s novel The Willoughbys (seen above), a […]
The post Netflix Orders Up Six New Animated Movies & TV Shows, Including ‘The Willoughbys’ and ‘My Father’s Dragon’ appeared first on /Film.
The post Netflix Orders Up Six New Animated Movies & TV Shows, Including ‘The Willoughbys’ and ‘My Father’s Dragon’ appeared first on /Film.
- 11/6/2018
- by Ethan Anderton
- Slash Film
Netflix has added six diverse and global perspectives to their forthcoming slate of animated programming. The lineup includes both feature films and original series suited for kids and families.
From the CG of Kris Pearn’s The Willoughbys to the 2D style of Nora Twomey’s My Father’s Dragon, the slate includes a variety of animation styles.
The robust slate of films joins the roster of other previously announced Netflix family animated titles that include Chris Williams’ Jacob and the Sea Beast, Sergio Pablos’ Klaus, Rajiv Chilaka’s Mighty Little Bheem, Josj Wakely’s animated series Motown Magic, Glen Keane’s CG adventure Over the Moon, Guillermo del Toro’s stop-motion version of Pinocchio, and Wendell & Wild from Henry Selick and Jordan Peele.
Details about the new additions can be read below.
Maya and the Three (2021) is an animated limited series created, written, and directed by Jorge Gutierrez. Set in a mythical Mesoamerican inspired world, a warrior princess embarks on a quest to recruit three legendary fighters to help save the world of men and gods. Silvia Olivas (Elena of Avalor) is co-writer and co-executive producer, and Jeff Ranjo (Moana) is head of story.
My Father’s Dragon (2021) is a 2D animated family feature film from director Nora Twomey and written by Meg LeFauve, with story by Meg LeFauve and John Morgan, who are also executive producers. Bonnie Curtis and Julie Lynn of Mockingbird Pictures are producing together with Paul Young of Cartoon Saloon and Tomm Moore. Based on the Newbery Honored children’s novels by Ruth Stiles Gannett, My Father’s Dragon tells the story of young run-away Elmer Elevator, who searches for a captive Dragon on Wild Island and finds much more than he could ever have anticipated. Alan Moloney and Ruth Coady of Parallel Films will also serve as executive producers alongside Gerry Shirren.
Go! Go! Cory Carson (2019) is an animated preschool series from Kuku Studios in Berkeley, CA executive produced by Alex Woo, Stanley Moore and Tone Thyne. Based on the hit toy line Go! Go! Smart Wheels from VTech Electronics, Go! Go! Cory Carson follows the adventures of kid car Cory Carson as he navigates the winding roads of childhood in Bumperton Hills.
Kid Cosmic (2020) is an animated series in production from Craig McCracken. This is a show about a young boy who dreams of becoming a hero, and when he stumbles across some cosmic stones of power his dreams appear to have come true! Unfortunately, the reality of being a hero vs. the fantasy of being a hero are completely different and this challenge becomes the biggest battle he has to face. The Kid may be the good guy, but he’s really bad at it!
Trash Truck (2020) is an animated series in production from Max Keane (Dear Basketball). Hank is a free-range, dirt-covered 6-year-old boy with a big imagination and an even bigger best pal… a giant honking, snorting trash truck. From learning to fly to going to the dentist, there is no adventure too big or too small for these two best friends. Glen Keane and Gennie Rim (Dear Basketball) serve as executive producers alongside Max Keane.
The Willoughbys (2020) is a highly stylized CG animated feature film currently in production with Bron Animation in Vancouver from writer/director Kris Pearn (Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs 2). When the four Willoughby children are abandoned by their selfish parents, they must learn how to adapt their old-fashioned values to the contemporary world in order to create a new and modern family. Based on the book by Newbery Award-winning author, Lois Lowry. Starring Ricky Gervais, Maya Rudolph, Will Forte, Martin Short, Alessia Cara and Jane Krakowski.
From the CG of Kris Pearn’s The Willoughbys to the 2D style of Nora Twomey’s My Father’s Dragon, the slate includes a variety of animation styles.
The robust slate of films joins the roster of other previously announced Netflix family animated titles that include Chris Williams’ Jacob and the Sea Beast, Sergio Pablos’ Klaus, Rajiv Chilaka’s Mighty Little Bheem, Josj Wakely’s animated series Motown Magic, Glen Keane’s CG adventure Over the Moon, Guillermo del Toro’s stop-motion version of Pinocchio, and Wendell & Wild from Henry Selick and Jordan Peele.
Details about the new additions can be read below.
Maya and the Three (2021) is an animated limited series created, written, and directed by Jorge Gutierrez. Set in a mythical Mesoamerican inspired world, a warrior princess embarks on a quest to recruit three legendary fighters to help save the world of men and gods. Silvia Olivas (Elena of Avalor) is co-writer and co-executive producer, and Jeff Ranjo (Moana) is head of story.
My Father’s Dragon (2021) is a 2D animated family feature film from director Nora Twomey and written by Meg LeFauve, with story by Meg LeFauve and John Morgan, who are also executive producers. Bonnie Curtis and Julie Lynn of Mockingbird Pictures are producing together with Paul Young of Cartoon Saloon and Tomm Moore. Based on the Newbery Honored children’s novels by Ruth Stiles Gannett, My Father’s Dragon tells the story of young run-away Elmer Elevator, who searches for a captive Dragon on Wild Island and finds much more than he could ever have anticipated. Alan Moloney and Ruth Coady of Parallel Films will also serve as executive producers alongside Gerry Shirren.
Go! Go! Cory Carson (2019) is an animated preschool series from Kuku Studios in Berkeley, CA executive produced by Alex Woo, Stanley Moore and Tone Thyne. Based on the hit toy line Go! Go! Smart Wheels from VTech Electronics, Go! Go! Cory Carson follows the adventures of kid car Cory Carson as he navigates the winding roads of childhood in Bumperton Hills.
Kid Cosmic (2020) is an animated series in production from Craig McCracken. This is a show about a young boy who dreams of becoming a hero, and when he stumbles across some cosmic stones of power his dreams appear to have come true! Unfortunately, the reality of being a hero vs. the fantasy of being a hero are completely different and this challenge becomes the biggest battle he has to face. The Kid may be the good guy, but he’s really bad at it!
Trash Truck (2020) is an animated series in production from Max Keane (Dear Basketball). Hank is a free-range, dirt-covered 6-year-old boy with a big imagination and an even bigger best pal… a giant honking, snorting trash truck. From learning to fly to going to the dentist, there is no adventure too big or too small for these two best friends. Glen Keane and Gennie Rim (Dear Basketball) serve as executive producers alongside Max Keane.
The Willoughbys (2020) is a highly stylized CG animated feature film currently in production with Bron Animation in Vancouver from writer/director Kris Pearn (Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs 2). When the four Willoughby children are abandoned by their selfish parents, they must learn how to adapt their old-fashioned values to the contemporary world in order to create a new and modern family. Based on the book by Newbery Award-winning author, Lois Lowry. Starring Ricky Gervais, Maya Rudolph, Will Forte, Martin Short, Alessia Cara and Jane Krakowski.
- 11/6/2018
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix is unveiling six new animated projects as the streaming giant continues to bolster its family entertainment slate.
The offerings span film and television, and spring from the minds of some of the most acclaimed names in media. The movies include “My Father’s Dragon,” a 2D animated family feature film from Oscar-nominated director Nora Twomey (“The Secret of Kells”), and “The Willoughbys,” an adaptation from the Lois Lowry novel of the same name by writer and director Kris Pearn (”Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs 2″). “The Willoughbys” is already in production and boasts a voice cast that includes Ricky Gervais, Maya Rudolph, Will Forte, Martin Short, Alessia Cara and Jane Krakowski. “My Father’s Dragon,” has a script from “Inside Out’s” Meg LeFauve.
On the television front, Netflix has greenlit three shows. The streaming service has enlisted “The Powerpuff Girls” creator Craig McCracken to do a...
The offerings span film and television, and spring from the minds of some of the most acclaimed names in media. The movies include “My Father’s Dragon,” a 2D animated family feature film from Oscar-nominated director Nora Twomey (“The Secret of Kells”), and “The Willoughbys,” an adaptation from the Lois Lowry novel of the same name by writer and director Kris Pearn (”Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs 2″). “The Willoughbys” is already in production and boasts a voice cast that includes Ricky Gervais, Maya Rudolph, Will Forte, Martin Short, Alessia Cara and Jane Krakowski. “My Father’s Dragon,” has a script from “Inside Out’s” Meg LeFauve.
On the television front, Netflix has greenlit three shows. The streaming service has enlisted “The Powerpuff Girls” creator Craig McCracken to do a...
- 11/6/2018
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Jorge R. Gutiérrez knew he couldn’t turn down the invitation.
In January, the “Book of Life” director was one of a select group of animators asked to attend a special presentation at Netflix’s Hollywood offices. Even though the event coincided with Gutiérrez’s 43rd birthday, the filmmaker felt he had to make the time.
“My wife kept asking if I was sure I wanted to go and miss having a family dinner, but the allure of Netflix — the freedom it promised — was too great,” he says.
Gutiérrez gathered with other creators on the Netflix roof, where over pizza and beer he listened as Melissa Cobb, the newly minted head of the company’s kids and family division, had a simple request: Bring us your best ideas.
Almost a year later, Netflix’s vast ambitions to become a player in the family entertainment space are beginning to take shape.
In January, the “Book of Life” director was one of a select group of animators asked to attend a special presentation at Netflix’s Hollywood offices. Even though the event coincided with Gutiérrez’s 43rd birthday, the filmmaker felt he had to make the time.
“My wife kept asking if I was sure I wanted to go and miss having a family dinner, but the allure of Netflix — the freedom it promised — was too great,” he says.
Gutiérrez gathered with other creators on the Netflix roof, where over pizza and beer he listened as Melissa Cobb, the newly minted head of the company’s kids and family division, had a simple request: Bring us your best ideas.
Almost a year later, Netflix’s vast ambitions to become a player in the family entertainment space are beginning to take shape.
- 11/6/2018
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
This article marks Part 19 of the 21-part Gold Derby series analyzing Meryl Streep at the Oscars. Join us as we look back at Meryl Streep’s nominations, the performances that competed with her at the Academy Awards, the results of each race and the overall rankings of the contenders.
After scoring her 18th Oscar nomination with “August: Osage County” (2013), Meryl Streep lined up a trio of promising projects for the following year. That 19th nomination would, no doubt, be lurking around the corner.
First, there was “The Giver,” the long-awaited film adaptation of Lois Lowry‘s best-selling dystopian young adult novel. The project paired Streep with, for the first time, two Hollywood heavyweights – Oscar winner Jeff Bridges and Australian director Philip Noyce. A late summer release, “The Giver” mustered decent box office receipts but was resoundingly trashed by critics.
Garnering warm reviews but a chilly box office reception was Streep’s second 2014 release,...
After scoring her 18th Oscar nomination with “August: Osage County” (2013), Meryl Streep lined up a trio of promising projects for the following year. That 19th nomination would, no doubt, be lurking around the corner.
First, there was “The Giver,” the long-awaited film adaptation of Lois Lowry‘s best-selling dystopian young adult novel. The project paired Streep with, for the first time, two Hollywood heavyweights – Oscar winner Jeff Bridges and Australian director Philip Noyce. A late summer release, “The Giver” mustered decent box office receipts but was resoundingly trashed by critics.
Garnering warm reviews but a chilly box office reception was Streep’s second 2014 release,...
- 2/22/2018
- by Andrew Carden
- Gold Derby
The Willoughbys, an upcoming animated film project based on the Lois Lowry children's book of the same name has just added some temendous voice talent to its already impressive list of contributors. Now, in addition to Jane Krakowski (30 Rock, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt), Terry Crews (Brooklyn Nine-nine), and Sean Cullen (Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs), actors Martin Short and Maya Rudolph have also joined the... Read More...
- 6/2/2017
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Maya Rudolph, Terry Crews, Martin Short, Jane Krakowski and Sean Cullen have joined the voice cast of Bron Animation’s The Willoughbys which is based on Lois Lowry’s 2010 popular children's book of the same name. Ricky Gervais is the film’s narrator and one of the executive producers. Rudolph will be the voice of Nanny, who looks after the Willoughby children. Crews is voicing candy mogul Commandor Melanoff, and Short and Krakowski give voice to Father and Mother…...
- 6/2/2017
- Deadline
Maya Rudolph and Terry Crews have joined the voice cast of animated feature The Willoughbys, along with Martin Short, Jane Krakowski and Sean Cullen.
The newcomers join previously announced star and producer Ricky Gervais, who will narrate the Bron Studios animation that is based on the popular children's book by The Giver author Lois Lowry.
The Willoughbys follows four kids — Tim, Jane and the twins — after they are abandoned by their selfish parents and embark on a wild adventure into the world, where they find a new modern family of their own.
Short and Krakowski will voice Father and Mother Willoughby, parents so in love...
The newcomers join previously announced star and producer Ricky Gervais, who will narrate the Bron Studios animation that is based on the popular children's book by The Giver author Lois Lowry.
The Willoughbys follows four kids — Tim, Jane and the twins — after they are abandoned by their selfish parents and embark on a wild adventure into the world, where they find a new modern family of their own.
Short and Krakowski will voice Father and Mother Willoughby, parents so in love...
- 6/2/2017
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Maya Rudolph and Terry Crews have joined the voice cast of animated feature The Willoughbys, along with Martin Short, Jane Krakowski and Sean Cullen.
The newcomers join previously announced star and producer Ricky Gervais, who will narrate the Bron Studios animation that is based on the popular children's book by The Giver author Lois Lowry.
The Willoughbys follows four kids — Tim, Jane and the twins — after they are abandoned by their selfish parents and embark on a wild adventure into the world, where they find a new modern family of their own.
Short and Krakowski will voice Father ...
The newcomers join previously announced star and producer Ricky Gervais, who will narrate the Bron Studios animation that is based on the popular children's book by The Giver author Lois Lowry.
The Willoughbys follows four kids — Tim, Jane and the twins — after they are abandoned by their selfish parents and embark on a wild adventure into the world, where they find a new modern family of their own.
Short and Krakowski will voice Father ...
Maya Rudolph and Terry Crews have joined the voice cast of animated feature The Willoughbys, along with Martin Short, Jane Krakowski and Sean Cullen.
The newcomers join previously announced star and producer Ricky Gervais, who will narrate the Bron Studios animation that is based on the popular children's book by The Giver author Lois Lowry.
The Willoughbys follows four kids — Tim, Jane and the twins — after they are abandoned by their selfish parents and embark on a wild adventure into the world, where they find a new modern family of their own.
Short and Krakowski will voice Father ...
The newcomers join previously announced star and producer Ricky Gervais, who will narrate the Bron Studios animation that is based on the popular children's book by The Giver author Lois Lowry.
The Willoughbys follows four kids — Tim, Jane and the twins — after they are abandoned by their selfish parents and embark on a wild adventure into the world, where they find a new modern family of their own.
Short and Krakowski will voice Father ...
Bron Animation title based on 2010 Lois Lowry novel of same name.
Maya Rudolph, Terry Crews, Martin Short, Jane Krakowski and Sean Cullen have joined the cast of Bron Animation’s The Willoughbys.
Kris Pearn writes and directs and Cory Evans co-directs the story of the four Willoughby children, abandoned by their selfish parents, who embark on an adventure through the modern world. They encounter a cat, an orphan, a nanny and a confection mogul on their quest to reunite with the family they were born into.
Rudolph will voice Nanny, who looks after the Willoughby children. Crews is voicing the confection mogul Commander Melanoff, and Short and Krakowski give voice to Father and Mother Willoughby, parents so in love with each other they forget they even have children. Cullen voices the twin boys Barnaby A and B.
Gervais was previously announced as the narrator of the film, which is currently in pre-production at Bron’s studio in Burnaby...
Maya Rudolph, Terry Crews, Martin Short, Jane Krakowski and Sean Cullen have joined the cast of Bron Animation’s The Willoughbys.
Kris Pearn writes and directs and Cory Evans co-directs the story of the four Willoughby children, abandoned by their selfish parents, who embark on an adventure through the modern world. They encounter a cat, an orphan, a nanny and a confection mogul on their quest to reunite with the family they were born into.
Rudolph will voice Nanny, who looks after the Willoughby children. Crews is voicing the confection mogul Commander Melanoff, and Short and Krakowski give voice to Father and Mother Willoughby, parents so in love with each other they forget they even have children. Cullen voices the twin boys Barnaby A and B.
Gervais was previously announced as the narrator of the film, which is currently in pre-production at Bron’s studio in Burnaby...
- 6/2/2017
- ScreenDaily
British comic previously collaborated with Bron on Special Correspondents.
Ricky Gervais has signed on to narrate Bron Animation’s The Willoughbys, based on the children’s book.
Kris Pearn will direct from his adaptation of the novel by Lois Lowry, and Cory Evans is co-directing. Bron Animation president Brenda Gilbert made the announcement on Thursday.
The Willoughbys was published in 2010 and tells of four children abandoned by their parents who must learn how to create a modern family.
The project is currently in pre-production at Bron’s studio in Burnaby, British Columbia. Wme Global represents rights.
Bron’s Brenda Gilbert, Aaron L. Gilbert and Luke Carroll are producing. Gervais serves as executive producer.
Bron and Gervais previously worked together on Special Correspondents, which Gervais wrote and directed and Netflix premiered worldwide in 2016.
“Ricky has such a distinctive voice and his talents will make an exceptional contribution to the edgy tone that we are going for with The Willoughbys...
Ricky Gervais has signed on to narrate Bron Animation’s The Willoughbys, based on the children’s book.
Kris Pearn will direct from his adaptation of the novel by Lois Lowry, and Cory Evans is co-directing. Bron Animation president Brenda Gilbert made the announcement on Thursday.
The Willoughbys was published in 2010 and tells of four children abandoned by their parents who must learn how to create a modern family.
The project is currently in pre-production at Bron’s studio in Burnaby, British Columbia. Wme Global represents rights.
Bron’s Brenda Gilbert, Aaron L. Gilbert and Luke Carroll are producing. Gervais serves as executive producer.
Bron and Gervais previously worked together on Special Correspondents, which Gervais wrote and directed and Netflix premiered worldwide in 2016.
“Ricky has such a distinctive voice and his talents will make an exceptional contribution to the edgy tone that we are going for with The Willoughbys...
- 4/13/2017
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Ricky Gervais will narrate Bron Animation's upcoming feature The Willoughbys, based on the children's book of the same name by Lois Lowry.
Written and directed by Kris Pearn (Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2) and co-directed by Cory Evans, the film is in preproduction at Bron's studio in Burnaby, B.C. Bron's Brenda Gilbert, Aaron L. Gilbert and Luke Carroll are producing. Gervais is an exec producer.
Published in 2010, the book follows the four Willoughby children, who are abandoned by their oblivious parents and must learn how to adapt their old-fashioned values to the contemporary world in order to create a...
Written and directed by Kris Pearn (Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2) and co-directed by Cory Evans, the film is in preproduction at Bron's studio in Burnaby, B.C. Bron's Brenda Gilbert, Aaron L. Gilbert and Luke Carroll are producing. Gervais is an exec producer.
Published in 2010, the book follows the four Willoughby children, who are abandoned by their oblivious parents and must learn how to adapt their old-fashioned values to the contemporary world in order to create a...
- 4/13/2017
- by Carolyn Giardina
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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